Effects of supplementation of different selenium sources on lipid profile, selenium, and vitamin E concentration of yolk

Egg preference as a source of protein also provides beneficial fatty acids, vital for human consumption. However, rich in lipid products are prone to oxidative damage. The study aims to determine the effect of supplementing biogenic selenium (Se) from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, ADS18 (ADS18) in laying hens' diet on yolk lipid oxidation status (MDA), beta-carotene (β-carotene) content, cholesterol, fatty acids, Se, and vitamin E (VE) level. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) laying hens of Lohmann Brown strains aged 50 weeks, weighing 1500 to 2000 g were reared individually in A-shape two-tier stainless-steel cages sized 30 cm x 50 cm x 40 cm (width, depth height). The hens were randomly allotted into four treatments with six replications in a complete randomised design for the period of 12 weeks. The basal diet contains 100 mg/kg VE. Treatment diets consist of basal diet as control, SS containing 0.3 mg/kg sodium selenite, Se-yeast containing 0.3 mg/kg selenised yeast, and VADS18 containing 0.3 mg/kg of ADS18. Forty-eight eggs were collected and freeze-dried biweekly for analysis. The results of the present study showed that hens supplemented ADS18 had significantly (P < 0.05) lower MDA and cholesterol levels while their egg yolks had higher levels of Se and mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). The control group had significantly (P < 0.05) higher saturated fatty acid (SFA) contents than the VE and dietary Se-supplemented groups, while the ADS18 group had the lowest SFA contents. Conversely, in comparison to the inorganic and control groups, the VE content of the egg yolk was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in organic Se-supplemented (Se-yeast and VADS18) groups. Hens with SS supplementation had significantly (P < 0.05) higher egg yolk β-carotene content. When compared to other treatment groups, the control group had higher (P < 0.05) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content. The ADS18 is therefore deemed comparable to other Se sources. To prevent Se toxicity, however, a better understanding of the levels of ADS18 incorporation in poultry diets is required.

Effect of the Drying Method and Storage Conditions on the Quality and Content of Selected Bioactive Compounds of Green Legume Vegetables

This study aimed to determine the effect of the drying method (freeze-drying, air-drying), storage period (12 months), and storage conditions (2-4 °C, 18-22 °C) applied to two legume species: green beans and green peas. The raw and dried materials were determined for selected physical parameters typical of dried vegetables, contents of bioactive components (vitamin C and E, total chlorophyll, total carotenoids, β-carotene, and total polyphenols), antioxidative activity against the DPPH radical, and sensory attributes (overall quality and profiles of color, texture, and palatability). Green beans had a significantly higher content of bioactive components compared to peas. Freeze-drying and cold storage conditions facilitated better retention of these compounds, i.e., by 9-39% and 3-11%, respectively. After 12 months of storage, higher retention of bioactive components, except for total chlorophyll, was determined in peas regardless of the drying method, i.e., by 38-75% in the freeze-dried product and 30-77% in the air-dried product, compared to the raw material.

Diversity, distribution, and bioprospecting potentials of carotenogenic yeast from mangrove ecosystem

Microbial production of carotenoids has gained significant interest for its cost-effectiveness and sustainable nature. This study focuses on 47 red-pigmented yeasts isolated from sediments and plant parts of 13 species of mangrove trees. The relative abundance and distribution of these yeasts varied with plant species and plant parts. The highest number of red yeasts was associated with the mangrove plant Avicennia officinalis (32%). Notably, the leaves harbored the highest percentage (45%) of carotenogenic yeasts, and definite compartmentalization of these yeast species was noticed in mangrove plant parts. All the isolates were molecularly identified and they belonged to the genera of Rhodotorula, Rhodosporidiobolus, and Cryptococcus. The diversity of the pigmented yeasts isolated from A. officinalis was found to be the greatest. Among these strains, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa PV 8 was identified as the most potent producer of carotenoid pigment. Under optimized conditions of physical parameters - 28 °C, pH 5, and 15% salinity led to biomass production of 9.2 ± 0.12 g/L DCW and a pigment yield of 194.78 µg/g. The pigment produced by PV 8 was identified as β-carotene by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). This β-carotene demonstrated strong antioxidant activity. Moreover, the carotenoid displayed promising antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant organisms, including Aeromonas sp. and Vibrio sp. In vitro studies revealed the probiotic traits of PV 8. The cytotoxicity of R. mucilaginosa PV 8 was assessed in the invertebrate model Artemia salina and the survival rate showed that it was non-toxic. Furthermore, the β-carotene from PV 8 demonstrated the ability to transfer its vibrant color to various food products, maintaining color stability even under varied conditions. This research underscores the potential of R. mucilaginosa PV 8, as a versatile and valuable resource for the production of carotenoids.

Bioactive Potential of Carrot-Based Products Enriched with Lactobacillus plantarum

The primary goal of this study was to generate different kinds of functional products based on carrots that were supplemented with lactic acid bacteria. The fact that carrots (Daucus carota sp.) rank among the most popular vegetables in our country led to the convergence of the research aim. Their abundance of bioactive compounds, primarily polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids, offers numerous health benefits. Among the obtained products, the freeze-dried carrot powder (FDCP) variation presented the highest concentrations of total carotenoids (TCs) and β-carotene (BC) of 26.977 ± 0.13 mg/g DW and 22.075 ± 0.14 mg/g DW, respectively. The amount of total carotenoids and β-carotene significantly increased with the addition of the selected lactic acid bacteria (LAB) for most of the samples. In addition, a slight increase in the antioxidant activity compared with the control sample for the FDCP variant, with the highest value of 91.74%, was observed in these functional food products. The content of polyphenolic compounds varied from 0.044 to 0.091 mg/g DW, while the content of total flavonoids varied from 0.03 to 0.66 mg/g DW. The processing method had an impact on the population of L. plantarum that survived, as indicated by the viability of bacterial cells in all the analyzed products. The chromatographic analysis through UHPLC-MS/MS further confirmed the abundance of the bioactive compounds and their corresponding derivatives by revealing 19 different compounds. The digestibility study indicated that carotenoid compounds from carrots followed a rather controlled release. The carrot-based products enriched with Lactobacillus plantarum can be considered newly functional developed products based on their high content of biologically active compounds with beneficial effects upon the human body. Furthermore, these types of products could represent innovative products for every related industry such as the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmeceutical industries, thus converging a new strategy to improve the health of consumers or patients.

Gac Fruit Oils Encapsulated by Palm Oil-based Monoacylglycerols: The Effect of Drying Methods

Lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) are interesting wall-materials for encapsulation technology, in which monoacylglycerols (MAGs) are considered as potential ingredient for LLC formulation. This study, therefore, applied palm oil-based MAGs to encapsulate Gac fruit oils and compared the effect of two drying methods (freeze-drying and spray-drying) on the quality of products during storage. Wall-materials were prepared by ultrasound dispersing MAGs/water mixtures (40/60, w/w) into Pluronic solution (2%, w/w) to formulate LLC dispersions. Then, Gac fruit oils were encapsulated by freeze-drying and spray-drying. Various technologies were applied to characterize the properties of dispersions, the encapsulated powder morphology and the loading capacity. Obtained results showed that LLC dispersions made of palm oilbased MAG were micro- and nano-emulsions which were very convenient for encapsulating Gac fruit oils. For both drying methods, β-carotene of Gac fruit oils was successfully entrapped by MAGs with a high loading capacity (200 µg β-carotene/g powder). The degradation of encapsulated β-carotene after four storage weeks was 10 - 40% and freeze-dried samples showed a better protection effect in comparison to spray-dried samples.

Validation of resonance Raman spectroscopy-measured skin carotenoid status as a biomarker for fruit and vegetable intake in Korean adults

Blood carotenoid concentration measurement is considered the gold standard for fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake estimation; however, this method is invasive and expensive. Recently, skin carotenoid status (SCS) measured by optical sensors has been evaluated as a promising parameter for F&V intake estimation. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to validate the utility of resonance Raman spectroscopy (RRS)-assessed SCS as a biomarker of F&V intake in Korean adults. We used data from 108 participants aged 20-69 years who completed SCS measurements, blood collection and 3-d dietary recordings. Serum carotenoid concentrations were quantified using HPLC, and dietary carotenoid and F&V intakes were estimated via 3-d dietary records using a carotenoid database for common Korean foods. The correlations of the SCS with serum carotenoid concentrations, dietary carotenoid intake and F&V intake were examined to assess SCS validity. SCS was positively correlated with total serum carotenoid concentration (r = 0·52, 95 % CI = 0·36, 0·64, P < 0·001), serum β-carotene concentration (r = 0·60, 95 % CI = 0·47, 0·71, P < 0·001), total carotenoid intake (r = 0·20, 95 % CI = 0·01, 0·37, P = 0·04), β-carotene intake (r = 0·30, 95 % CI = 0·11, 0·46, P = 0·002) and F&V intake (r = 0·40, 95 % CI = 0·23, 0·55, P < 0·001). These results suggest that SCS can be a valid biomarker of F&V intake in Korean adults.

Advancing carotenoid Quantification: A new method for semi-quantitative assessment of β -Carotene and lycopene content in food extracts

Carotenoids, such as lycopene and β-carotene, have been widely recognized for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Accurate quantification of carotenoids in plant extracts is essential for nutritional assessment, quality control, and research investigations. This study introduces an innovative method for quantifying lycopene and β-carotene, in plant extracts and aims to bridge the gap between complex and expensive carotenoid quantification techniques and the need for accessible methods that can be widely adopted. The primary difference between HPLC and HPTLC lies in the medium used for separation. HPLC employs a liquid phase within columns, while HPTLC utilizes a thin layer of adsorbent on a plate. This distinction impacts factors like equipment, cost, and analysis time. The VisionCats software, combined with the CAMAG Visualizer-2, allows the semi-quantification of metabolites using an image-based evaluation method enabling the simultaneous assessment of qualitative and semi-quantitative information from the HPTLC images. Sample preparation involves washing and drying the vegetal material, followed by dichloromethane extraction. HPTLC analysis is performed using the CAMAG Advanced Herbal System, and the validation studies include establishing calibration curves and determining the detection threshold and minimum quantification threshold for lycopene and β-carotene. Specificity and precision were evaluated to ensure accurate identification and repeatability of the method. Data analysis involves selecting the regression method based on the nature of the data and assessing the goodness of fit using the R2 value. The results showed distinct peaks corresponding to lycopene and β-carotene in the chromatograms of the plant extract samples. The visualizer-based method demonstrates good specificity and precision, with no interfering peaks observed and low relative standard deviation. The method shows promising results regarding specificity, precision, and reliability. It has the potential for broader implementation in carotenoid research and rapid monitoring of carotenoid content in various agricultural and food products, particularly in resource-limited settings. Further optimization and validation on a wider range of samples would enhance the applicability of this method in carotenoid research. Sample preparation involves washing and drying the vegetal material, followed by dichloromethane extraction. HPTLC analysis is performed using the CAMAG Advanced Herbal System, and the validation studies include establishing calibration curves and determining the detection threshold and minimum quantification threshold for lycopene and β-carotene. Specificity and precision were evaluated to ensure accurate identification and repeatability of the method. Data analysis involves selecting the regression method based on the nature of the data and assessing the goodness of fit using the R2 value. The results showed distinct peaks corresponding to lycopene and β-carotene in the chromatograms of the plant extract samples. The visualizer-based method demonstrates good specificity and precision, with no interfering peaks observed and low relative standard deviation. The method shows promising results regarding specificity, precision, and reliability. It has the potential for broader implementation in carotenoid research and for rapid screening and monitoring of carotenoid content in various agricultural and food products, particularly in resource-limited settings. Further optimization and validation on a wider range of samples would enhance the applicability of this method in carotenoid research.

Extractability, selectivity, and comprehensiveness in supercritical fluid extraction of seaweed using ternary mixtures of carbon dioxide, ethanol, and water

It is well-known that an ideal extraction method enabling quantitative analysis should give complete extraction of the target analytes as well as minimal co-extraction of unwanted matrix substances. If the extraction method is part of a nontarget screening protocol, the desired analytes can differ widely in terms of chemical properties. In chromatography, terminologies such as recovery, selectivity, and comprehensiveness are well-established and can easily be determined. However, in extraction, these concepts are much less developed. Hence, the aim of our research is to develop and scrutinize theory in extraction with respect to numerical descriptors for extractability, selectivity, and comprehensiveness. Our approach is based on experiments determining the extractability of target analytes and selected interferences. As a case study, we use a pooled sample of three species of seaweed (Alaria esculenta, Laminaria digitata and Ascophyllum nodosum). Target analytes are β-carotene, fucoxanthin, δ-tocopherol, and phloroglucinol; and selected interferences are carbohydrates, proteins, ash, arsenic, and chlorophyll a. As a "green and clean" extraction technique, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) using mixtures of CO2, ethanol and water were explored using a design of experiment. The temperature was varied between 40-80°C, and the pressure was held constant at 300 bar. Obtained results clearly demonstrate that highest relative selectivity was achieved with CO2 containing only 5 vol% of ethanol and no water, which primarily enabled high extractability of β-carotene, and yielding an extract free of carbohydrates, proteins, and toxic metals such as arsenic. Best methods for highest extractability of the other target analytes varied quite widely. Analytes requiring the highest water content (fucoxanthin and phloroglucinol), also resulted in the lowest relative selectivity. Maximum relative comprehensiveness was achieved using CO2/ethanol/water (40/55/5, v/v/v) at 70°C and 300 bar. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of using relative quantitative descriptors for extractability, selectivity, and comprehensiveness, in optimization strategies for analytical extractions.

An ex vivo intestinal absorption model is more effective than an in vitro cell model to characterise absorption of dietary carotenoids following simulated gastrointestinal digestion

To get the most accurate food digestion-related data, and how this affects nutrient absorption, it is critical to carefully simulate human digestion systems using model settings. In this study, the uptake and transepithelial transportation of dietary carotenoids was compared using two different models that have previously been used to assess nutrient availability. The permeability of differentiated Caco-2 cells and murine intestinal tissue were tested using all-trans-β-carotene and lutein prepared in artificial mixed micelles and micellar fraction from orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) gastrointestinal digestion. Transepithelial transport and absorption efficiency were then determined using liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry (LCMS-MS). Results showed that the mean uptake for all-trans-β-carotene in the mouse mucosal tissue was 60.2 ± 3.2% compared to 36.7 ± 2.6% in the Caco-2 cells with the mixed micelles as the test sample. Similarly, the mean uptake was higher in OFSP with 49.4 ± 4.1% following mouse tissue uptake compared to 28.9 ± 4.3% using Caco-2 cells for the same concentration. In relation to the uptake efficiency, the mean percentage uptake for all-trans-β-carotene from artificial mixed micelles was 1.8-fold greater in mouse tissue compared to Caco-2 cells (35.4 ± 1.8% against 19.9 ± 2.6%). Carotenoid uptake reached saturation at 5 µM when assessed with the mouse intestinal cells. These results demonstrate the practicality of employing physiologically relevant models simulating human intestinal absorption processes that compares well with published human in vivo data. When used in combination with the Infogest digestion model, the Ussing chamber model, using murine intestinal tissue, may thus be an efficient predictor of carotenoid bioavailability in simulating human postprandial absorption ex vivo.

Nutritional aspects of non-conventional edible plants from Brazil: Caruru (Amaranthus spinosus L) and trapoeraba (Commelina benghalensis)

Caruru (Amaranthus spinosus L) and trapoeraba (Commelina benghalensis) are NCEPs introduced into Brazil and are widely used by certain communities. Given the lack of information on carotenoids, vitamins, and minerals present in A. spinosus and C. benghalensis grown in Brazil, this study aimed to determine the proximate composition and the micronutrient profile of these two NCEPs obtained from family farming in the Middle Doce River (Médio Rio Doce) region in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The proximate composition was evaluated using AOAC methods, vitamin E by HPLC with fluorescence detection, vitamin C and carotenoids by HPLC-DAD, and minerals by atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma. In summary, the leaves of A. spinosus exhibited a high content of dietary fiber (10.20 g.100 g^-1), potassium (708.8 mg·100 g^-1), iron (4.0 mg·100 g^-1) and β-carotene (6.94 mg·100 g^-1), while the leaves of C. benghalensis were sources of potassium (1399.31 mg·100 g^-1), iron (5.7 mg·100 g^-1), calcium (163 mg·100 g^-1), zinc (1.3 mg·100 g^-1), ascorbic acid (23.61 mg·100 g^-1), and β-carotene (31.33 mg·100 g^-1). It was therefore concluded that C. benghalensis and A. spinosus, especially, presented excellent potential as important nutritional sources for human consumption, highlighting the gap existing between the available technical and scientific material, thus making them an important and necessary axis of research.

Effect of heat and pulsed electric field treatment on the physicochemical and nutritional properties of carrots

BACKGROUND

Carrots are widely used in home cooking and vegetable processing industries because of their high nutritional value. However, different processing methods may produce a negative impact on carrot texture and nutrition quality. Therefore, the development of better processing methods to preserve the texture and nutrition quality of carrots will be beneficial to the carrot industry.

RESULTS

The effects of heat and pulsed electric field (PEF) treatments with different heat temperatures (T) and holding time (t_h ) on comprehensive changes in thermal efficiency profiles, and physicochemical (color, hardness, cell structural damage) and nutritional (releasable β-carotene contents) properties of carrots were studied. In addition, electrical conductivity (σ) and soluble matter contents (°Brix) were determined for the heat-treated extracts. The value of total color difference (∆E) and cell structural damage index (Z) of carrots, σ and °Brix of extracts all increased with increasing T and t_h under different heat experimental conditions, whereas the value of cutting force (F) presented an opposite tendency and content of releasable β-carotene decreased after t_h  > 2 min at T = 100 °C.

CONCLUSION

The results show that PEF heating is beneficial in preventing changes in physicochemical and nutritional properties of carrots compared to traditional heat treatment. PEF has potential as a heating technology in the food industry. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Cold pressed pumpkin seed oil fatty acids, carotenoids, volatile compounds profiles and infrared fingerprints as affected by storage time and wax-based oleogelation

BACKGROUND

Pumpkin seed and sunflower oil are rich in bioactive compounds, but are prone to oxidation during storage. Their fatty acids, carotenoid and volatile compounds and their Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) profiles were studied during 8 months storage in order to assess the overall quality, but also to assess the impact of the oleogelation as conditioning process.

RESULTS

The fatty acids methyl esters were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The linoleic acid was the most abundant in the oils (604.6 g kg^-1 in pumpkin and 690 g kg^-1 in sunflower), but also in oleogels. Through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), lutein and β-carotene were determined as specific carotenoid compounds of the pumpkin seed oil and oleogel, in a total amount of 0.0072 g kg^-1 . The volatile compounds profile revealed the presence of alpha-pinene for the pumpkin seed oil and oleogels and a tentative identification of limonene for the sunflower oil. Hexanal was also detected in the oleogels, indicating a thermal oxidation, which was further analyzed through infrared spectroscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

During 8 months storage, the decrease of polyunsaturated fatty acid total amount was 5.72% for the pumpkin seed oil and 3.55% for the oleogel, while in the sunflower oil samples of 2.93% and 3.28% for the oleogel. It was concluded that oleogelation might protect specific carotenoid compounds, since the oleogels displayed higher content of β-carotene at each storage time. Hexanal and heptanal were detected during storage, regardless of the oil or oleogel type. FTIR analysis depicts the differences in the constituent fatty acids resulting due to thermal oxidation or due to storage. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Vitamin E and carotenoid profiles in leaves, stems, petioles and flowers of stinging nettle (Urtica leptophylla Kunth) from Costa Rica

BACKGROUND

Local leafy vegetables are gaining attention as affordable sources of micronutrients, including vitamins, pro-vitamin carotenoids and other bioactive compounds. Stinging nettles (Urtica spp.) are used as source of fibers, herbal medicine and food. However, despite the relatively wide geographical spread of Urtica leptophylla on the American continent, little is known about its content of vitamin E congeners and carotenoids. We therefore investigated the particular nutritional potential of different plant structures of wild Costa Rican U. leptophylla by focusing on their vitamin E and carotenoid profiles.

RESULTS

Young, mature and herbivore-damaged leaves, flowers, stems and petioles were collected and freeze-dried. Vitamin E and carotenoids were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography after liquid/liquid extraction with hexane. α-Tocopherol was the major vitamin E congener in all structures. Flowers had a high content of γ-tocopherol. Herbivore-damaged leaves had higher contents of vitamin E than undamaged leaves. Lutein was the major and β-carotene the second most abundant carotenoid in U. leptophylla. No differences in carotenoid profiles were observed between damaged and undamaged leaves.

CONCLUSION

The leaves of U. leptophylla had the highest nutritional value of all analyzed structures; therefore, they might represent a potential source of α-tocopherol, lutein and β-carotene. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Changes in carbon allocation and subplastidal amyloplast structures of specialised Ipomoea batatas (sweet potato) storage root phenotypes

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) in Low and Medium Income countries remains a major health concern. Ipomoea batatas, orange sweet potato (OSP), is one of the biofortification solutions being implemented by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to combat VAD. However, high provitamin A (β-carotene) content has been associated with a reduction in dry matter, reducing calorific value and having adverse effects on consumer traits. Both starch and carotenoid formation are located in amyloplasts and could potentially compete for the same precursors. Hence, five different sweet potato storage root phenotypes were characterized through spatial metabolomics and proteomics at the sub-plastidal level. The metabolite data suggested an indirect correlation of starch and carotenoids through the TCA cycle and pentose phosphate pathway. Furthermore, a change in lipid composition was observed to accommodate the storage of carotenoids in the hydrophilic environment of the amyloplast. The data suggests an alteration of cellular ultra-structures and perturbation of metabolism in high β-carotene producing sweet potato roots. This corroborates with previous gene expression analysis through biochemical analysis of sweet potato root tissue.

Plastid diversity and chromoplast biogenesis in differently coloured carrots: role of the DcOR3Leu gene

Distinct plastid types and ultrastructural changes are associated with differences in carotenoid pigment profiles in differently coloured carrots, and a variant of the OR gene, DcOR3^Leu is vital for chromoplast biogenesis. Accumulation of different types and amounts of carotenoids in carrots impart different colours to their taproots. In this study, the carotenoid pigment profiles, morphology, and ultrastructure of plastids in 25 carrot varieties with orange, red, yellow, or white taproots were investigated by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography as well as light and transmission electron microscopy. α-/β-Carotene and lycopene were identified as colour-determining carotenoids in orange and red carrots, respectively. In contrast, lutein was identified as the colour-determining carotenoid in almost all tested yellow and white carrots. The latter contained only trace amounts of lutein as a unique detectable carotenoid. Striking differences in plastid types that coincided with distinct carotenoid profiles were observed among the differently coloured carrots. Microscopic analysis of the different carotenoid pigment-loaded plastids revealed abundant crystalloid chromoplasts in the orange and red carrots, whereas amyloplasts were dominant in most of the yellow and white carrots, except for the yellow carrot 'Yellow Stone', where yellow chromoplasts were observed. Plastoglobuli and crystal remnants, the carotenoid sequestering substructures, were identified in crystalloid chromoplasts. Crystal remnants were often associated with a characteristic undulated internal membrane in orange carrots or several undulated membranes in red carrots. No crystal remnants, but some plastoglobuli, were observed in the plastids of all tested yellow and white carrots. In addition, the presence of chromoplast in carrot taproots was found to be associated with DcOR3^Leu, a natural variant of DcOR3, which was previously reported to be co-segregated with carotene content in carrots. Knocking out DcOR3^Leu in the orange carrot 'Kurodagosun' depressed chromoplast biogenesis and led to the generation of yellow carrots. Our results support that DcOR3^Leu is vital but insufficient for chromoplasts biogenesis in carrots, and add to the understanding of the formation of chromoplasts in carrots.

Correlation Study between the Organic Compounds and Ripening Stages of Oil Palm Fruitlets Based on the Raman Spectra

The degree of maturity of oil palm fresh fruit bunches (FFB) at the time of harvest heavily affects oil production, which is expressed in the oil extraction rate (OER). Oil palm harvests must be harvested at their optimum maturity to maximize oil yield if a rapid, non-intrusive, and accurate method is available to determine their level of maturity. This study demonstrates the potential of implementing Raman spectroscopy for determining the maturity of oil palm fruitlets. A ripeness classification algorithm has been developed utilizing machine learning by classifying the components of organic compounds such as β-carotene, amino acid, etc. as parameters to distinguish the ripeness of fruits. In this study, 47 oil palm fruitlets spectra from three different ripeness levels-under ripe, ripe, and over ripe-were examined. To classify the oil palm fruitlets into three maturity categories, the extracted features were put to the test using 31 machine learning models. It was discovered that the Medium, Weighted KNN, and Trilayered Neural Network classifier has a maximum overall accuracy of 90.9% by using four significant features extracted from the peaks as the predictors. To conclude, the Raman spectroscopy method may offer a precise and efficient means to evaluate the maturity level of oil palm fruitlets.

Supercritical CO2 Extraction of High-Added Value Compounds from Chlorella vulgaris: Experimental Design, Modelling and Optimization

Microalgae are well-known for their high-added value compounds and their recovery is currently of great interest. The aim of this work is the recovery of such components from Chlorella vulgaris through supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with CO₂. The effect of the extraction temperature (40–60 °C), pressure (110–250 bar), and solvent flow rate (20–40 g/min) was tested on yield, the extract’s antioxidant activity, and the phenolic, chlorophyll and carotenoid content. Thus, data analysis indicated that the yield was mainly affected by temperature, carotenoids by pressure, while the extract’s phenolics and antioxidant activity were affected by the synergy of temperature and pressure. Moreover, SFE’s kinetic study was performed and experimental data were correlated using Sovová’s mass transfer-based model. SFE optimization (60 °C, 250 bar, 40 g/min) led to 3.37% w/w yield, 44.35 mg_extr/mg_DPPH antioxidant activity (IC50), 18.29 mg_GA/g_extr total phenolic content, 35.55, 21.14 and 10.00 mg/g_extr total chlorophyll, carotenoid and selected carotenoid content (astaxanthin, lutein and β-carotene), respectively. A comparison of SFE with conventional aq. ethanol (90% v/v) extraction proved SFE’s superiority regarding extraction duration, carotenoids, antioxidant activity and organoleptic characteristics of color and odor despite the lower yield. Finally, cosolvent addition (ethanol 10% w/w) at optimum SFE conditions improved the extract’s antioxidant activity (19.46%) as well as yield (101.81%).

The Association Between Dietary Antioxidants and Semen Parameters: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Iranian Infertile Men

We aimed to explore the relationship between intakes of food-derived antioxidants (zinc, vitamin E, β-carotene, and selenium) and semen parameters in an infertile male population. This is a cross-sectional study among infertile men (> 18 years) referred to Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center in Iran from March 2019 to October 2019. The main outcome measures were semen volume, sperm count, concentration, total motility, and morphology. Micronutrients considered in this analysis were zinc, selenium, β-carotene, and vitamin E. A total of 350 infertile men with a mean (SE) age of 34.77 (0.42) were included in this study. Selenium intake tended to be positively associated with higher semen volume (β = 0.79; 95% CI: - 0.01, 1.59) and sperm total motility after adjustment for main confounders (β = 2.64; 95% CI: - 3.61, 8.89). Intake of β-carotene was only associated with higher sperm total motility (β = 5.46; 95% CI: - 0.84, 11.77). No significant association was detected between intakes of zinc and vitamin E and semen parameters.In a population of infertile adult men, selenium intake was associated with higher sperm total motility and semen volume, and in the case of β-carotene, better sperm total motility. Further, prospective studies are warranted.

Phenolic and flavonoid compounds and antioxidant activity in flowers of nine endemic Verbascum species from Iran

BACKGROUND

In this study, flowers of nine mullein species (Verbascum erianthum, V. songaricum, V. speciosum, V. szovitsianum, V. stachydiforme, V. sinuatum, V. haussknechtianum, V. cheirantifolium, and V. saccatum) were collected from Iran. The total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant activity, total carotenoid (TCC), β-carotene content and the amount of phenolic compounds were determined in all of the collected mullein species. Quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD).

RESULTS

Verbascum saccatum and V. songaricum, in particular, were found to be rich in total flavonoids and exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity. The HPLC-DAD analysis revealed that V. erianthum possessed the highest amount of caffeic acid (0.022 g kg^-1 DW), chlorogenic acid (2.649 g kg^-1 DW), p-coumaric acid (0.253 g kg^-1 DW), and apigenin (0.066 g kg^-1 DW). The highest gallic acid (0.134 g kg^-1 DW), rutin (5.254 g kg^-1 DW), quercetin (1.303 g kg^-1 DW), and cinnamic acid (1.031 g kg^-1 DW) content were observed in V. saccatum. Our results demonstrate the considerable variations in the TFC, antioxidant activity, TCC, and β-carotene content among the mullein species.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study provide useful information for breeding strategies, and for choosing the best species with high phenolic compound content to produce natural antioxidants for medical and pharmaceutical use. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Carotenoid Profile in Maternal/Cord Plasma and Changes in Breast Milk along Lactation and Its Association with Dietary Intake: A Longitudinal Study in a Coastal City in Southern China

In this study, changes of carotenoids in breast milk were observed longitudinally for up to one year. Our study aimed to analyze the profile of carotenoids in breast milk and maternal/cord plasma and its correlation with dietary intake in Guangzhou. Plasma and breast milk samples of five stages during lactation (i.e., colostrum; transitional milk; and early, medium, and late mature milk) were collected from lactating mothers. The food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used for collecting data on dietary intake in the corresponding stages. Levels of lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, β-carotene, and lycopene were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. We found that the total carotenoid level decreased gradually with the extension of lactation and eventually stabilized. Among them, the content of lutein increased from colostrum to transitional milk and decreased thereafter until it plateaued in the mature milk. Furthermore, lutein was reported as the dominant nutrient in maternal plasma, cord plasma, transitional milk, and mature milk at up to 400 days postpartum, while beta-carotene was predominant in colostrum. The content of β-carotenoid in middle and late mature breast milk was related to dietary intake (r = 1.690, p < 0.05). Carotenoid level in cord blood was lower than that in the mother’s plasma and was related to the carotenoid intake in the mother’s diet. Correlation of carotenoids between maternal and umbilical cord blood, breast milk, and maternal blood could well reflect the transport of carotenoids. These findings may help to guide mothers’ diets during breastfeeding.

Effect of blending ratio of wheat, orange fleshed sweet potato and haricot bean flour on proximate compositions, β-carotene, physicochemical properties and sensory acceptability of biscuits’

Background: Protein-energy malnutrition and vitamin A deficiency (VAD) are the most important public health issues, and a food-based strategy is crucial to combat those health problems among the vulnerable group of people. Methods: Composite biscuits were made with 100:0:0, 90:5:5, 80:10:10, 70:15:15, 60:20:20, and 50:25:25 percent wheat, haricot bean, and orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) flours.Standard methods were used to evaluate the proximate compositions, β-carotene, physical properties, functional properties, and sensory acceptability. A one-way analysis of variance model was used to statistically evaluate the data using the statistical analysis system software package, version 9.0 standard methods. Results: The results showed that partially replacing wheat with haricot beans and OFSP increased the β-carotene and proximate compositions significantly. When wheat was replaced with haricot beans and OFSP, the physical characteristics of the biscuits did not vary significantly from those of biscuits made entirely of wheat flour. Sensory acceptability (appearance, color, flavor, taste and overall acceptability) was higher in the composite biscuits with up to 40% wheat substitution than in the 100% wheat flour biscuits. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this report, replacing wheat with OFSP and haricot beans in biscuit formulation appears to be promising in improving nutritional quality, sensory acceptability, and beta carotene. It is proposed that these products can mitigate food insecurity and deficiency of vitamin A.

Effects of indoor, greenhouse, and field cultivation on bioactive compounds from parsley and basil

BACKGROUND

Aromatic herbs are an important source of bioactive compounds. Different cultivation systems should give each plant a specific amount of those compounds, which should be of a particular quality. In this study, the effects of three cultivation systems (indoor, greenhouse, and organic field) on the composition of bioactive compounds in parsley (Petroselinum crispum cv. 'Flat Leaf'), green basil (Ocimum basilicum var. minimum cv. 'Greek'), and purple basil (Ocimum basilicum cv. 'Red Rubin') were evaluated.

RESULTS

β-Carotene and lutein were the carotenoids with the highest concentration in the three plants in all the cultivation systems. Overall, parsley proved to be a source of flavonoids. The major phenolic compound found in basil plants was rosmarinic acid, whereas most anthocyanins were derived from cyanidin aglycone. Among the three plants studied, the highest vitamin C content was found in parsley from the field. This was 2.6 and 5.4 times higher than the indoor and greenhouse cultivation, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that different cultivation systems influence and modulate the concentration of bioactive compounds in plants differently, varying according to their class, and that, above all, an indoor system is an effective cultivation system for the production of bioactive compounds. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

In-silico HMG-CoA reductase-inhibitory and in-vivo anti-lipidaemic/anticancer effects of carotenoids from Spondias mombin

OBJECTIVES

Inhibition of HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A) reductase, the rate rate-determining enzyme for the biogenesis of cholesterol is known to show antineoplastic effects. Therefore, this study investigates the in-silico HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR)-inhibitory and in-vivo anti-lipidaemic/anticancer effects of carotenoids from Spondias mombin.

METHODS

Carotenoids from S. mombin leaves were characterized with the aid of liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS). The characterized phytochemicals were obtained from PubChem. They were docked into the orthosteric site of human HMGCR (Protein Data Bank code 1HW8) using AutoDock 4.0 suites. DMBA (7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene) model of breast cancer was treated with the carotenoids extract from S. mombin (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg doses) to assess its anti-lipidaemic cum anticancer effects.

KEY FINDINGS

Carotenoids from S. mombin; beta-carotene-15,15'-epoxide, astaxanthin and 7,7',8,8'-tetrahydro-β-β-carotene demonstrate HMGCR inhibition. They form hydrophobic interactions with key residues within the catalytic domain of HMGCR. The carotenoids extract exhibits anti-lipidaemic/anticancer effects, lowering serum triglyceride, LDL and cholesterol concentration. It increases HDL concentration and downregulates the expression of HMGR, AFP, CEACAM-3, BRCA-1 and HIF-1 mRNAs.

CONCLUSION

Carotenoids from S. mombin demonstrate HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) inhibition, anti-lipidaemic, and anticancer effects. The inhibition of HMGCR by the carotenoids extract further poses it as a potential anti-hypercholesterolaemia compounds.

Investigations of β-carotene radical cation formation in infrared matrix-assisted laser desorption electrospray ionization (IR-MALDESI)

RATIONALE

Radical cationization of endogenous hydrocarbons in cherry tomatoes was previously reported using infrared matrix-assisted laser desorption electrospray ionization (IR-MALDESI), a mass spectrometry imaging technique that operates at ambient conditions and requires no sample derivatization. Due to the surprising nature of this odd-electron ionization, subsequent experiments were performed on β-carotene to determine the amount of radical cationization across different sampling conditions.

METHODS

β-Carotene was analyzed across a variety of sample states using IR-MALDESI followed by Orbitrap mass spectrometric analysis: first, as a standard in ethanol in a well plate; second, as particulates on printer paper; and third, as particulates covered by an ice matrix. These techniques were also performed with a β-carotene standard either in solution with a reducing agent (ascorbic acid) or with ascorbic acid in the electrospray solution.

RESULTS

Tandem mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of the radical cation of β-carotene by comparing fragments against NIST and METLIN databases. It was always analyzed as a radical cation when sampled from solution, where ascorbic acid increased radical cation abundance when in solution with β-carotene. Mixed-mode ionization between radical cationization and proton adduction was observed from dried particulates using IR-MALDESI.

CONCLUSIONS

There are several potential mechanisms for β-carotene radical cationization prior to IR-MALDESI analysis, with multiphoton ionization, thermal degradation, and/or reaction with oxygen appearing to be the most logical explanations. Furthermore, although not the primary cause, changing certain aspects of sample conditions can result in significant mixed-mode ionization with competing protonation.

Nutritional and Functional Evaluation of Inula crithmoides and Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum Grown in Different Salinities for Human Consumption

The nutritional composition and productivity of halophytes is strongly related to the biotic/abiotic stress to which these extremophile salt tolerant plants are subjected during their cultivation cycle. In this study, two commercial halophyte species (Inula crithmoides and Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum) were cultivated at six levels of salinity using a soilless cultivation system. In this way, it was possible to understand the response mechanisms of these halophytes to salt stress. The relative productivity decreased from the salinities of 110 and 200 mmol L⁻¹ upwards for I. crithmoides and M. nodiflorum, respectively. Nonetheless, the nutritional profile for human consumption remained balanced. In general, I. crithmoides vitamin (B1 and B6) contents were significantly higher than those of M. nodiflorum. For both species, β-carotene and lutein were induced by salinity, possibly as a response to oxidative stress. Phenolic compounds were more abundant in plants cultivated at lower salinities, while the antioxidant activity increased as a response to salt stress. Sensory characteristics were evaluated by a panel of culinary chefs showing a preference for plants grown at the salt concentration of 350 mmol L⁻¹. In summary, salinity stress was effective in boosting important nutritional components in these species, and the soilless system promotes the sustainable and safe production of halophyte plants for human consumption.

Characterization of nutritionally important lipophilic constituents from brown kelp Ecklonia radiata (C. Ag.) J. Agardh

This research study presents information for the first time on the nutritionally relevant lipophilic compounds obtained from Ecklonia radiata, a poorly studied brown kelp. The major lipophilic compounds were analyzed utilizing liquid chromatography (LC)-tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometry (MS). The LC-MS/MS results revealed the presence of eight major lipophilic compounds, including sterols, carotenoids, vitamin E, and phylloquinone (vitamin K1). Quantitative analysis showed that fucosterol was the most predominant phytosterol in the fronds and stipes of E. radiata. The carotenoids (all-E)-fucoxanthin and (all-E)-β-carotene were present in higher yield. In terms of vitamin E, α-tocopherol was identified as the main tocol. The coenzyme, phylloquinone, important for protein synthesis, was also identified in E. radiata. GC-MS identified 13 fatty acids with palmitic (C16:0) and oleic acid (C18:1n9c) present in the highest quantities. To our knowledge, this is the first report on E. radiata, and the valuable data presented herein can be used as a baseline for developing novel nutraceuticals.

Development of sub-tropically adapted diverse provitamin-A rich maize inbreds through marker-assisted pedigree selection, their characterization and utilization in hybrid breeding

Malnutrition has emerged as one of the major health problems worldwide. Traditional yellow maize has low provitamin-A (proA) content and its genetic base in proA biofortification breeding program of subtropics is extremely narrow. To diversify the proA rich germplasm, 10 elite low proA inbreds were crossed with a proA rich donor (HP702-22) having mutant crtRB1 gene. The F2 populations derived from these crosses were genotyped using InDel marker specific to crtRB1. Severe marker segregation distortion was observed. Seventeen crtRB1 inbreds developed through marker-assisted pedigree breeding and seven inbreds generated using marker-assisted backcross breeding were characterized using 77 SSRs. Wide variation in gene diversity (0.08 to 0.79) and dissimilarity coefficient (0.28 to 0.84) was observed. The inbreds were grouped into three major clusters depicting the existing genetic diversity. The crtRB1-based inbreds possessed high β-carotene (BC: 8.72μg/g), β-cryptoxanthin (BCX: 4.58μg/g) and proA (11.01μg/g), while it was 2.35μg/g, 1.24μg/g and 2.97μg/g in checks, respectively. Based on their genetic relationships, 15 newly developed crtRB1-based inbreds were crossed with five testers (having crtRB1 gene) using line × tester mating design. 75 experimental hybrids with crtRB1 gene were evaluated over three locations. These experimental hybrids possessed higher BC (8.02μg/g), BCX (4.69μg/g), proA (10.37μg/g) compared to traditional hybrids used as check (BC: 2.36 μg/g, BCX: 1.53μg/g, proA: 3.13μg/g). Environment and genotypes × environment interaction had minor effects on proA content. Both additive and dominance gene action were significant for proA. The mean proportion of proA to total carotenoids (TC) was 44% among crtRB1-based hybrids, while 11% in traditional hybrids. BC was found to be positively correlated with BCX (r = 0.68) and proA (r = 0.98). However, no correlation was observed between proA and grain yield. Several hybrids with >10.0 t/ha grain yield with proA content >10.0 μg/g were identified. This is the first comprehensive study on development of diverse proA rich maize hybrids through marker-assisted pedigree breeding approach. The findings provides sustainable and cost-effective solution to alleviate vitamin-A deficiency.

Effect of steam sterilisation on lipophilic nutrient stability in a chloroplast-rich fraction (CRF) recovered from postharvest, pea vine field residue (haulm)

Postharvest, pea vine field residue (haulm) was steam-sterilised and then juiced; a chloroplast-rich fraction (CRF) was recovered from the juice by centrifugation. The stability of selected nutrients (β-carotene, lutein, and α-tocopherol) in the freeze-dried CRF material was measured over 84 days; the impact of temperature (-20 °C, 4 °C, 25 °C and 40 °C), light and air on nutrient stability was established. All three nutrients were stable at -20 °C and 4 °C in the presence or absence of air; this stability was lost at higher temperatures in the presence of air. The extent and rate of nutrient breakdown significantly increased when the CRF samples were exposed to light. β-Carotene appeared to be more susceptible to degradation than lutein and α-tocopherol at 40 °C in the presence of air, but when CRF was exposed to light all three nutrients measured were significantly broken down during storage at 25 °C or 40 °C, whether exposed to air or not.

Multiple Micronutrients, Lutein, and Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation during Lactation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Breastfed infants require an adequate supply of critical nutrients for growth, tissue functions, and health. Recommended intakes for several nutrients are considerably higher in lactating than non-lactating women but are not always met with habitual diets. We report a randomized, double-blind clinical trial in 70 healthy lactating women in Germany evaluating the effects of supplementation with multiple micronutrients, lutein, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) compared to placebo on maternal nutrient status and milk composition. The primary endpoint was the effect on the change of human milk DHA content (as a proportion of total milk fatty acids) during 12 weeks of supplementation. Maternal blood and milk biomarkers were measured as secondary endpoints. Supplementation increased maternal milk DHA by 30% compared to a decline in the placebo group. Supplementation also increased maternal blood DHA (17%), eicosapentaenoic acid (4%), 25-OH-vitamin D (24%), vitamin B12 (12%), lutein (4%), and beta carotene (49%), while homocysteine decreased. No significant difference in the number of adverse events was observed between supplementation and placebo groups. In conclusion, multi-micronutrient supplementation was safe and increased maternal blood and milk concentrations of selected nutrients in healthy women.

Dietary nutrients of relative importance associated with coronary artery disease: Public health implication from random forest analysis

Dietary nutrients have significant effects on the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the results were not uniform across different countries. The study aims to determine the relative importance of dietary nutrients associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) among the Nepalese population. A hospital-based matched case-control study was carried out at Shahid Gangalal National Heart Center in Nepal. In the present study, patients with more than seventy percent stenosis in any main coronary artery branch in angiography were defined as cases, while those presenting normal coronary angiography or negative for stressed exercise test were considered controls. Dietary intakes of 612 respondents over the past 12 months were evaluated using a semi-quantitative customized food frequency questionnaire. In conditional regression model, the daily average dietary intake of β-carotene (OR: 0.54; 95%CI: 0.34, 0.87), and vitamin C (OR: 0.96; 95%CI: 0.93, 0.99) were inversely, whereas dietary carbohydrate (OR: 1.16; 95%CI: 1.1, 1.24), total fat/oil (OR: 1.47; 95%CI: 1.27, 1.69), saturated fatty acid (SFA) (OR: 1.2; 95%CI: 1.11, 1.3), cholesterol (OR: 1.01; 95%CI: 1.001, 1.014), and iron intakes (OR: 1.11; 95%CI: 1.03, 1.19) were positively linked with CAD. Moreover, in random forest analysis, the daily average dietary intakes of SFA, vitamin A, total fat/oil, β-carotene, and cholesterol were among the top five nutrients (out of 12 nutrients variables) of relative importance associated with CAD. The nutrients of relative importance imply a reasonable preventive measure in public health nutrients specific intervention to prevent CAD in a resource-poor country like Nepal. The findings are at best suggestive of a possible relationship between these nutrients and the development of CAD, but prospective cohort studies and randomized control trials will need to be performed in the Nepalese population.

Bioactive Compounds in Wild Asteraceae Edible Plants Consumed in the Mediterranean Diet

Three wild edible plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family, Crepis vesicaria L. (s.l.), Sonchus asper (L.) Hill s.l., and Sonchus oleraceus L., usually consumed in the Mediterranean diet, were tested for their nutritional composition and content of carotenoids, tocols, thiamine and riboflavin. Low amounts of thiamine and riboflavin were found. All species were sources of xanthophylls (violaxanthin, neoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin and β-cryptoxanthin) and carotenes (α-carotene, β-carotene, 9-cis-β-carotene and 13-cis-β-carotene). Lutein accounted for the highest content (about 4 mg/100 g). They had good tocol amounts, in particular α-tocopherol (about 2-3 mg/100 g). Taking into account the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) established by the EU Regulation, the analyzed plants can be declared as a source of fiber, vitamin A and E. These data could be useful for database on the nutritional and bioactive compound profile of studied plants and can contribute in promoting their use in functional foods.

The gene encoding lycopene epsilon cyclase of celery enhanced lutein and β-carotene contents and confers increased salt tolerance in Arabidopsis

Celery (Apium graveolens L.) is a leafy vegetable of Apiaceae, which is greatly popular because of its rich nutrients. Lutein and β-carotene are two important carotenoids. Lycopene epsilon cyclase (LCY-ε) is a key branch point enzyme in the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway. In this study, we cloned the AgLCY-ε gene from celery and overexpressed it in Arabidopsis. The results showed that both lutein and β-carotene accumulation increased significantly in transgenic Arabidopsis hosting AgLCY-ε gene, compared with wild type (WT) plants. The transcription levels of AtPSY and AtCRTISO genes involved in carotenoids biosynthesis also increased in transgenic lines. One-month-old transgenic Arabidopsis seedlings were treated with 200 mM NaCl. The malondialdehyde (MDA) content in transgenic Arabidopsis plants after salt treatment was significantly lower, and the activities of the two antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD), were significantly increased than that of WT plants. Overexpression of AgLCY-ε gene showed increased lutein and β-carotene accumulations, and enhanced salt tolerance in transgenic plants.

Nutritional characterization of Butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata D.): Effect of variety (Ariel vs. Pluto) and farming type (conventional vs. organic)

Farming systems and cultivar types are two of the main factors able to affect the nutritional quality of plant foods for human nutrition. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the impact of two unexplored variety (namely Ariel and Pluto) and farming type (conventional and organic) on physicochemical parameters, chemical and mineral composition, water- and fat-soluble vitamins, amino acid profile and antioxidant bioactive components of butternut squashes (Cucurbita moschata). In order to achieve this purpose, a multivariate statistical discrimination of the different parameters was carried out using the unsupervised principle component analysis (PCA). The most important differences were obtained between the two cultivars under organic farming conditions. In fact, the proportion of compounds was higher in organic squashes than in conventional ones. In this regard, the essential amino acids were 1.3-fold higher than non-essential ones, as well as the contents of potassium (9%), magnesium (67%), sodium (29%), manganese (≈3-fold), zinc (≈2-fold) and tocopherol (4-fold). However, higher concentrations of folic acid (15%) and β-carotene (62%) were achieved under conventional cultivation. Regarding the impact of variety, Pluto was found to possess the highest levels of folic acid (24%) and β-carotene (80%), whilst the Ariel showed a higher tocopherol content (≈3-fold). Agricultural production systems have a great impact on the composition of Butternut squash, especially on essential amino acids content, antioxidant compounds and mineral composition.

Carotenogenesis and chromoplast development during ripening of yellow, orange and red colored Physalis fruit

Formation of specific ultrastructural chromoplastidal elements during ripening of fruits of three different colored Physalis spp. is closely related to their distinct carotenoid profiles. The accumulation of color-determining carotenoids within the chromoplasts of ripening yellow, orange, and red fruit of Physalis pubescens L., Physalis peruviana L., and Physalis alkekengi L., respectively, was monitored by high-performance liquid chromatography/diode array detector/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS/MS) as well as light and transmission electron microscopy. Both yellow and orange fruit gradually accumulated mainly β-carotene and lutein esters at variable levels, explaining their different colors at full ripeness. Upon commencing β-carotene biosynthesis, large crystals appeared in their chromoplasts, while large filaments protruding from plastoglobules were characteristic elements of chromoplasts of orange fruit. In contrast to yellow and orange fruit, fully ripe red fruit contained almost no β-carotene, but esters of both β-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin at very high levels. Tubule bundles and unusual disc-like crystallites were predominant carotenoid-bearing elements in red fruit. Our study supports the earlier hypothesis that the predominant carotenoid type might shape the ultrastructural carotenoid deposition form, which is considered important for color, stability and bioavailability of the contained carotenoids.

Potentiality of using front face fluorescence spectroscopy for quantitative analysis of cow milk adulteration in buffalo milk

In current study, synchronous front-face fluorescence spectroscopy together with partial least squares regression (PLSR) is used to predict the adulteration of cow and buffalo milk quantitatively. Fresh (unprocessed milk) samples of cow and buffalo were collected from local dairy farms. Fluorescence emission from milk samples mixed in different concentrations, show intensity variations at wavelengths 370-380 nm, 410 nm, 442 nm and 520-560 nm. Among them, the emissions at band position of 442 nm and 525 nm are highly selective between the two species and could help in finding adulteration of cow milk in buffalo milk and vice versa. The emissions at these wavelength positions correspond to fat-soluble vitamin-A as well as β-carotene. PLS regression is used as a statistical prediction model, which is developed by training with the emission spectra of milk samples having known level of adulterations. The developed model predicts the unknown level of adulterations by means of their spectral data. The goodness of the model is determined by the correlation coefficient R-square (r²) value, which in our case is 0.99. Furthermore, the model root mean square error in cross validation (RMSECV) and in prediction (RMSECP) remains 1.16 and 6.24 respectively. This approach can effectively be applied to determine milk adulterations among other species as well as in detecting external agents (fraudulent) added into milk and other dairy products by further studies.

The potential use of stickwater from a kilka fishmeal plant in Dunaliella salina cultivation

In this study, the possibility of culturing Dunaliella salina in stickwater (SW) as the main effluent of fishmeal plants was evaluated. D. salina was grown in different media obtained by replacing standard Guillard medium (F/2) with SW at 0% (control), 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% ratios. The cell density, pigment contents, proximate composition, saponification value, and fatty acids (FAs) profiles were measured for 14 days. SW was collected from a kilka fishmeal factory in northern Iran, and the characteristics indicated high concentrations of nitrate (242.00 mg L^-1) and phosphate (11.13 mg L^-1). A significant increase in the cell density was observed in 14 days when 75% SW was used. Moreover, SW significantly affected the pigment contents. The highest contents of chlorophylls, total carotenoids, and β-carotene (3.64 μg mL^-1) were calculated in 75% SW. According to the algal proximate composition, the highest and lowest contents of lipid were accumulated in 75% and 100% SW, respectively (p < 0.05). The highest level of saturated FAs was observed in 75% SW compared with the others (p < 0.05). In conclusion, replacing F/2 with SW indicated the capability of D. salina to grow in a treated medium with 75% SW substitution as a bioremediator.

Gingerols infusion and multi-step process optimization for enhancement of color, sensory and functional profiles of candied mango

Presence of pungent gingerols in ginger oleoresin makes it an ideal natural flavoring candidate for the food industry. The study reports its incorporation for synergistic enhancement of flavor and nutraceutical portfolio of candied mango. The process is systematically optimized at bench-scale for gingerols infusion and subsequent candying treatment in a range of hypo and hypertonic osmotic solutions for critical transport properties. After that, optimization of the drying process and the scale-up study was conducted with a 200 folds increase in the batch size. Collated effects of multistep optimization resulted in 85.6, 76.8, 60.2% retention in β-carotene, total phenolics, Vitamin C, respectively, along with minor color difference and significant improvement in sensory scores over fresh mango. Mass transfer and quality parameters were comparable in both scales, implying excellent repeatability and scalability of the process. Compared with a similar commercial product, substantial improvement in quality characteristics along with 376.7% reduction in overall processing time was achieved.

Relationship between plankton-based β-carotene and biodegradable adaptablity to petroleum-derived hydrocarbon

Coastal environment are often stress from petroleum-derived hydrocarbon pollution. However, petroleum-derived hydrocarbon is persistent organic pollutants and their biodegradation by phytoplankton is little known. Five species of marine phytoplankton, including Dunaliella salina, Chlorella sp., Conticribra weissflogii, Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin, and Prorocentrum donghaiense, have been used to test their tolerance to petroleum hydrocarbon contamination. D.salina and Chlorella sp can survive in high levels of No. 0 diesel oils water-soluble fractions (WSFs, 5.0 mg L^-1), furthermore, petroleum hydrocarbon could be biodegraded effectively by them (Fig. 2). The content of β-carotene in these two species of phytoplankton has significant correlation with degradation rate of WSFs concentrations (Fig. 4), petroleum hydrocarbons could be biodegraded effectively by algae. Meanwhile, the ·OH in seawater can be removed by β-carotene effectively so that algal cells could be protected by the β-carotene for its strong antioxidant capacity. Therefore, β-carotene as a coin has two sides on the degradation of WSFs. Here we explore the relationship between plankton-based β-carotene and biodegradable adaptabllity to petroleum-derived hydrocarbon, which offers a green technology for petroleum-derived hydrocarbon treatment.

Microencapsulated β-carotene preparation using different drying treatments

β-Carotene is one of the most abundant natural pigments in foods; however, usage of β-carotene is limited because of its instability. Microencapsulation techniques are usually applied to protect microencapsulated β-carotene from oxidization. In this study, β-carotene was microencapsulated using different drying processes: spray-drying, spray freeze-drying, coating, and spray granulation. The properties of morphology, particle size, water content, thermal characteristic, and chemical stability have been explored and compared. Scanning electron microscopy measurements showed that the coated powder had a dense surface surrounded by starch and suggested that the coating process gave a microencapsulated powder with the smallest bulk density and the best compressibility among the prepared powders. The chemical stabilities of microcapsules were evaluated during six months of storage at different temperatures. The coated powder had the highest mass fraction of β-carotene, which indicated that the coating process was superior to the three other drying processes.

Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of the Main Fruits, Tubers and Legumes Traditionally Consumed in the Andean Regions of Ecuador as a Source of Health-Promoting Compounds

Thirteen fruits, eight legumes and three tubers consumed in the Andean regions of Ecuador were studied to determine their bioactive compounds, organic acids, sugars content, total antioxidant capacity, as well as to determine which among them showed the greatest contribution in terms of antioxidant activity and which compounds contributed to it. Among fruits, taxo fruits (Passiflora mollissima (Kunth) L.H. Bailey) presented the highest values of total phenolic, carotene content, and total antioxidant capacity. The ají ratón (Capsicum chinense Jacq) showed the highest content of vitamin C. Taxo showed the highest content of β carotene, whilst lycopene was identified only in guayaba fruits (Psidium guajava L.) and ají ratón was the principal source of lutein. In legumes, chocho perla (Lupinus mutabilis Sweet) showed the highest values for both total phenolic and flavonoid content, whilst frejol negro (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and frejol canario (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) showed the highest values for FRAP and DPPH assay, respectively. Between tubers, the jícama (Smallanthus sonchifolius (Poepp.) H. Rob.) had the majors values in terms of total phenolic, flavonoid content, and total antioxidant capacity. In terms of total antioxidant capacity, taxo fruits have the highest contribution in terms of total antioxidant capacity, whilst the dendogram shown the occurrence of five distinct groups in which taxo was located in the first largest group. Our data contributing towards gaining better knowledge about the Andean Ecuadorian diet and the composition of Andean food in order to estimate dietary intakes of health-promoting components.

Bulk storage of mango (Mangifera indica L.) and pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) pulp: effect of pulping and storage temperature on phytochemicals and antioxidant activity

BACKGROUND

The effects of pulp extraction, thermal treatment and bulk storage of mango (Mangifera indica L.) and pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) pulps for 20 weeks at ambient (28 ± 2 °C) and cold (4 °C) temperatures on the bioactive phytochemicals and antioxidant activity were investigated.

RESULTS

The contents of total polyphenols in mango (10.5%) and pineapple (5.4%) increased during pulping. The ratio of the degradation rate constants (kd values) (28 ± 2 °C: 4 °C) of vitamin C, polyphenols, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and β-carotene ranged from 2-4.5 and 1.5-2.7 in mango and pineapple pulps, respectively. The kd values of tannic acid, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin and catechin in mango pulp were 1.5-1.8 times higher under ambient storage than in cold storage. Furthermore, in pineapple pulp, the degradation rates of the same components were 1.6, 1.6, 2.1 and 1.4 times, respectively, faster at room temperature than in cold storage. The bulk storage of pulps at 4 °C provided better retention of health-promoting compounds than ambient temperature storage for up to 20 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Bulk storage of mango and pineapple pulp under cold storage conditions (4 °C) is recommended as a better pulp preservation method than storage at ambient (28 ± 2 °C) temperature. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Compositional Analysis of Genetically Engineered GR2E "Golden Rice" in Comparison to That of Conventional Rice

Compositional analyses were performed on samples of rice grain, straw, and derived bran obtained from golden rice event GR2E and near-isogenic control PSBRc82 rice grown at four locations in the Philippines during 2015 and 2016. Grain samples were analyzed for key nutritional components, including proximates, fiber, polysaccharides, fatty acids, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and antinutrients. Samples of straw and bran were analyzed for proximates and minerals. The only biologically meaningful difference between GR2E and control rice was in levels of β-carotene and other provitamin A carotenoids in the grain. Except for β-carotene and related carotenoids, the compositional parameters of GR2E rice were within the range of natural variability of those components in conventional rice varieties with a history of safe consumption. Mean provitamin A concentrations in milled rice of GR2E can contribute up to 89-113% and 57-99% of the estimated average requirement for vitamin A for preschool children in Bangladesh and the Philippines, respectively.

Nutritional properties of organic and conventional beef meat at retail

BACKGROUND

Consumers perceive that organic meat has superior nutritional properties compared to conventional meat, although the available evidence from commercial samples is very scarce. The present study compared the nutritional composition of organic and conventional beef meat sold at retail, including, for the first time, the bioactive compounds coenzyme Q₁₀ , carnosine, anserine, creatine and taurine. Sampling comprised two muscles: longissimus thoracis and supraspinatus.

RESULTS

Organic beef had 17% less cholesterol, 32% less fat, 16% less fatty acids, 24% less monounsaturated fatty acids, 170% more α-linolenic acid, 24% more α-tocopherol, 53% more β-carotene, 34% more coenzyme Q₁₀ and 72% more taurine than conventional beef. Differences between organic and conventional samples were clearly dependent on the muscle because longissimus thoracis and supraspinatus showed different patterns of compound accumulation.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, a higher amount of bioactive compounds in organic beef meat is reported for the first time in the present study. Retail organic beef had a higher nutritional value than retail conventional beef, which resulted from better-balanced lipid and bioactive compound contents. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

The effect of different light regimes on pigments in Coscinodiscus granii

The influence of six different light regimes throughout the photosynthetically active radiation range (from 400 to 700 nm, including blue, green, yellow, red-orange, red, and white) at two intensities (100 and 300 µmol photons m^-2 s^-1) on pigmentation was assessed for the centric marine diatom Coscinodiscus granii for the first time. Chlorophyll (Chl) a and fucoxanthin were the dominating pigments in all treatments. The cellular concentrations of light harvesting pigment (Chl a, Chl c1 + c2, and fucoxanthin) were higher at 100 than at 300 µmol photons m^-2 s^-1 at all wavelengths, with the largest increases at red and blue light. The normalized concentrations of photoprotective pigments (violaxanthin, zeaxanthin, diadinoxanthin, and diatoxanthin) were higher at high light intensity than in cells grown at low light intensity. An increase in β-carotene in low light conditions is expected as the increased Chl a was related to increased photosynthetic subunits which require β-carotene (bound to photosystem core). At 300 µmol photons m^-2 s^-1, yellow light resulted in significantly lower concentration of most of the detected pigments than the other wavelengths. At 100 µmol photons m^-2 s^-1, W and B light led to statistically lower and higher concentration of most of the detected pigments than the other wavelengths, respectively.

Vitamin and bioactive compound diversity of seven fruit species from south Brazil

BACKGROUND

The consumption of native tropical fruits represents an important source of bioactive food and vitamins for consumers. The aim of this study was to determine the composition of vitamins, bioactive compounds and the antioxidant activity of seven native fruits of the Myrtaceae family from south Brazil.

RESULTS

Sample 1 of Eugenia pyriformis presented the highest value of β-carotene (0.1021 g kg^-1 ), lutein (0.0511 g kg^-1 ), zeaxanthin (0.0370 g kg^-1 ), and α-carotene (0.0112 g kg^-1 ), of all analyzed samples. The three samples of Eugenia uniflora L presented the highest lycopene (0.1876, 0.1240 and 0.1615 g kg^-1 ) and vitamin A content (0.106, 0.035 and 0.178 g kg^-1 RAE) of all seven species analyzed. The cyanidin 3-glucoside was the most common anthocyanin found in fruits in the present study. Two samples of Plinia peruviana presented higher antioxidant capacity by the ABTS radical method (0.80 and 0.67 mol TEs kg^-1 ) among the fruits analyzed. The samples of Campomanesia xanthocarpa analyzed stood out owing to the high content of vitamin C present (23.89, 36.83 and 35.05 g kg^-1 ). The values of pantothenic acid in Plinia peruviana account for 20% of daily requirements.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the native fruits studied can provide an appreciable amount of vitamins and bioactive compounds. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effects of integrated and organic pest management with copper and copper-free preparations on tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) fruit yield, disease incidence and quality

The present study investigates the effect of exclusion of copper preparations from spray programs for disease control in integrated and organic tomato production systems on disease incidence, yield and fruit vitamin C, α-tocopherol and carotenoids content for Monroe, Optima and Paki cultivars. Open field trials were conducted in a randomized block system with four repetitions over two years. Treatment for plant disease control comprised four spraying programs, two within each production system. Yields were significantly affected by cultivar, pest management system and their interaction. Copper-free integrated and organic spraying programs were almost as effective in disease control as standard treatments which included copper preparations. The spraying program significantly affected the contents of vitamin C, α-tocopherol, phytoene, and β-carotene in fruits; however, the effect was cultivar related. The lycopene contents appeared to be unaffected by the spraying program or growing system.

Effects of bio-based coatings on the ripening and quality attributes of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruits

BACKGROUND

Postharvest conservation of tomatoes is a major current challenge for growers and traders. Edible coatings constitute a pertinent alternative to existing conservation methods.

RESULTS

Control tomatoes were fully ripe 3 days after harvesting, whereas fruits dipped in solutions containing extracts from cocoa pods (T1), cocoa leaves (T2) or coffee hulls (T3) reached full ripeness 14 days after treatment (DAT). Fruits treated by dipping in a solution containing an extract from coffee leaves (T4) were fully ripe 21 DAT. The visual assessment was confirmed by alterations in the level of chlorophyll a. Treatments induced a significant inhibition of chlorophyll a breakdown, especially during the first week after their application, T4 being the most efficacious. Weight loss increased significantly throughout the experimental period and was accelerated by treatments. Some quality-related parameters of ripe tomato fruits were in most cases not significantly influenced by treatments. In a few cases, however, there were improvements in quality traits of ripe fruits. On 21 DAT, T4 induced significant increases in levels of β-carotene and 6-methyl-3,5-heptadien-2-ol, whereas T2 led, especially, to higher levels of volatile compounds.

CONCLUSION

Edible coatings based on extracts from coffee or cocoa leaves induced improvements in the shelf life and quality of tomato fruits. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

The effect of refining process on the physicochemical properties and micronutrients of rapeseed oils

Information on the physicochemical variability in rapeseed oil from different varieties during each refining process is lacking. Our purpose was to investigate the physicochemical properties, micronutrients and oxidative stability of the oil extracted from the five varieties of rapeseeds during their different stages of refining process. Increase in the acid value, peroxide value and p-anisidine value were detected in the refining, while content of tocopherols, sterols, β-carotene and phenols, which are regarded as important nutritional compounds diminished. Moreover, the loss rate of total phytosterols of all oils during neutralization (9.23–7.3%) and deodorization (9.97–8.27%) were higher than that of degumming (3.01–0.87%) and bleaching (2.75–1.18%). Deodorization affected total tocopherols contents the most, followed by bleaching, neutralization and degumming. There was a remarkable reduction in total content of phenol, β-carotene and oxygen radical absorbance of all oils during refining. The accumulated information can be used in looking for the optimum condition to meet the basic requirements for oil and minimize micronutrients losses so as to increase their market value.

Nutritional and Antioxidant Properties of Physalis peruviana L. Fruits from the Argentinean Northern Andean Region

Physalis peruviana L. fruits have gained great interest in different producing countries because they are good source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, the nutritional characterization and bioactive properties of both cultivated and wild fruits of P. peruviana growing in Argentina have not been conducted so far. The results provided clear difference in physicochemical, nutritional and bioactive characteristics of cultivated and wild fruits of P. peruviana from Argentinean Northern Andean region. Cultivated fruits showed a higher content of K, Mg and Cu and bioactive compounds as vitamin C than wild fruits. Besides, cultivated fruits displayed a high antiradical activity towards ABTS^●+ and FRAP. In addition, both cultivated and wild fruits exhibited a great antioxidant activity measured as the free radical scavenging activity against DPPH^● (effective concentration that scavenged 50% of the radicals is 0.64 and 1.65 mg/mL, respectively). The findings point out that the nutritional properties and bioactive compounds (vitamin C and β-carotene) of cultivated and wild fruits were comparable to those from countries with a production tradition. Outstandingly, the antioxidant performance of fruits growing in Argentinean Northern Andean region is remarkable in comparison with those reported in other producing zones, which can be ascribed to suitable ecological conditions.

Potential of cassava clones enriched with β-carotene and lycopene for zinc biofortification under different soil Zn conditions

BACKGROUND

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a major human health concern worldwide, and biofortification (genetic and agronomic) is a complementary solution for increasing micronutrient contents, including Zn. Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) has been used for Zn biofortification because it is an important staple crop in most countries affected by malnutrition and Zn deficiency. Thus studies on biofortification of this crop can improve its nutritional quality. Zn content in cassava clones enriched with β-carotene or lycopene and cultivated under different areas and soil managements was investigated to evaluate the influence of genotypic variation and agronomic management on Zn status in the plant.

RESULTS

A clone-specific response to total Zn content in the soil was found, with clones 26, 215, and 240 (β-carotene enriched) and clones 341 and 395 (lycopene enriched) being the most responsive. For both experiments, there was a positive interaction between total soil Zn and Zn content in the roots.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that, by combining plant breeding and agronomic strategies, it is possible to enrich cassava roots with both zinc and β-carotene or lycopene. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.